To all the ♥️ warriors, Happy Red Day. We are the fighters, We have a second chance, We get to live our life to the fullest. Grateful for the surgeons, cardiologists, nurses and all medical staff who work tirelessly to make us better.
I’m grateful

For those on the recovery side- it’s the little things during recovery that will help you feel great 1 year and 3 months later.
Believe in yourself- you CAN do it!
13.1 🏃🏻‍♀️ treadmill miles today, slow, but who cares.

1 year ago today, I began cardiac rehab. I was terrified, not feeling good, weak and barely handled 5 min on the readmill at a speed of 2.
If it wasn’t for Beth, my nurse, I probably would never have returned. I remember sobbing to her explaining I used to run. She encouraged me to work hard and never give up. I did just that.
Although it’s been a rocky year, I did my best to not let doctor visits, days I just needed to rest, unexpected hospital stay, and now on the 6 month watch list for regurg, etc, to not consume my mind. I’ve learned over the last several months to trust your after care medical team, just like we trusted our surgical team as they worked their skilled minds/hands to fix our valves.
Today, one year post cardiac rehab, I jogged 12 miles. Live without fear- live each day. That’s the best gift to give yourself.

Susan Lynn Great testimonial for cardiac rehab, Tracy! I doubt I will ever jog 12 miles, but I can relate to the initial time on the treadmill - it is very tiring. You've ... Read more

Susan Lynn Great testimonial for cardiac rehab, Tracy! I doubt I will ever jog 12 miles, but I can relate to the initial time on the treadmill - it is very tiring. You've certainly given everyone something to strive for! Continued success!

Debbie Kelly What an inspiration you young women are! I am trying my best to learn from you, Tracy and Susan. God bless you, both.

Judy S Thanks Tracy, I loved hearing your reflection about cardiac rehab. I wasn’t fit like you but I was so worried about how I was going to be able to do it. I ... Read more

Judy S Thanks Tracy, I loved hearing your reflection about cardiac rehab. I wasn’t fit like you but I was so worried about how I was going to be able to do it. I have a long way to go, but I have made slow but steady progress over the past five months. I don’t know that I will be running 12 miles anytime soon, but I’m so happy that you can!

14 months Mitral Valve Repair, tumor. Moderate Regurg now, on the watch list. I’ve decided to trust the process (for today 😉)let the worry go- causes too much anxiety- Regurg may never progress. 11 miles jogged today. Enjoy each day given to us.

Jeremiah Erez Hi Tracy!
I had mitral valve repair surgery on November 19, 2018 and that's one of my concerns, whether or not the valve will start leaking again.
Definitely ... Read more

Jeremiah Erez Hi Tracy!
I had mitral valve repair surgery on November 19, 2018 and that's one of my concerns, whether or not the valve will start leaking again.
Definitely don't want to go through open heart surgery again.
Like you said though, gotta let the worry go. It does cause too much anxiety. No need for that.
You look great Tracy and I wish you all the best in your continued recovery.
May God's peace be yours as you go forward on this Heart Warrior journey.

Gina Fiorentino Hi Tracy, thanks for posting. It is such a good reminder to stay in today. I agree, and it is a constant daily practice for me. I had my mitral valve repaired 9 months ago...

Dan Baltazor Just stay on the watch list and go on each day as you are today. You'll know in time what is to come of it. Worry doesn't change our outcome. 11 miles!! Wow!!

Adam, thank you for creating this site. For all the past ♥️warriors and soon to be ♥️warriors, thank you for being so supportive and understanding, in our world of ♥️ valves. Never give up, or stop searching for answers that will help you be the person of great health you deserve. This Christmas, hang on to those precious moments; they are such special gifts. Whether you are fully recovered, on the couch recovering, in the hospital or awaiting surgery, Merry Christmas to all of you. God bless you all. #togetherstrongertogether ❤️

John Isham Tracy.....thank you for this Great Encouraging Post! Merry Christmas and a Happy Fantastic 2019 to you and your family! I am awaiting my 1/15/2019 AVR Surgery ... Read more

John Isham Tracy.....thank you for this Great Encouraging Post! Merry Christmas and a Happy Fantastic 2019 to you and your family! I am awaiting my 1/15/2019 AVR Surgery with positive visualizations, great family and friends!

Today, I wore this cozy shirt to my Cardiologist appointment.
Exactly 1 year and 14 days (who is counting 😉), after my ♥️surgery and , difficult recovery, my cardiologist gave me the BEST news EVER.......I don’t need to see you for 1 year.

Rob Sparling Way to go, Tracy! We had nice weather for sure! Glad you enjoyed it! 👍

James A. Corbett Hi Tracy Fallu. I was first introduced to you when you made a comment on my post. I then saw your picture which prompted me to read your story. Very inspiring ... Read more

James A. Corbett Hi Tracy Fallu. I was first introduced to you when you made a comment on my post. I then saw your picture which prompted me to read your story. Very inspiring and it's also good news when my procedure is approaching on Tuesday. I'm a little older, 78, but I too have had no symptoms of MV regurgitation. I look forward to posting my progress because, other than reading first hand from other patients, I have no idea what the post-op situation will be. I wish you and your family a great Christmas and New Year. Jim

Yesterday I had a 2pm follow up recurrent pericarditis appt. I was called back, nurse took my BP, did it again (we all know “that” face), said just a second, returns with the my doctor and 2 others. checks it, I hear her say 189/80
(My BP typically is 105 ish/60-70ish).
EKG Machine comes in, I am feeling fine, the quick procedure begins and I start to feel clammy, room spinning and about ready to pass out, telling myself breathe, breathe, breathe. Out of no where, it feels as if someone is stabbing me in the front and back of head. I’m trying not to make a scene, but can’t help it, out of this world pain. That is about the last thing I remember. 3 hours later, the doctor and my husband are trying to walk me out. I’m sobbing, can’t hold my self up, no idea where I am, my husband brings me home.
From Day 1, just a bit over a year ago from Mitral Valve Repair, I have followed instructions of my medical team, been patient,
etc. My doctor 💯 % believed I needed to go form her office to hospital via ambulance. I asked her please don’t make me. My husband was begging me and I said no over and over and over (during the brief moment I was coherent). After we arrived home, on a Friday night, without me knowing, my doctor text my husband multiple times over the course of 4 hours, my husband asked if I wanted to read the texts. I started to sob, my husband was scared beyond belief, my doctor sick with concern. All this taking place while I was in/out of sleeping , most often confused, scared all while dealing with head pain, chest pain, etc.
In my ♥️, I absolutely knew I should have go as my husband, in the sweetest caring way begged me to go to the hospital.
This pain episode is a repeat that landed me in the hospital for 3 days. This time I’m not sure what came over me as i refused to be evaluated.. My 😇 doctor is not booting me off her patient list, she is speaking with my ♥️ Med team on Monday and help get to the bottom of this.
For the most part, all the warriors in this group have had their own share of battles. Im sharing because sometimes, it isn’t “just” about the patient!, this case, ME. After all I’ve gone through this past year, now is NOT the time to give up!!!!
For those beginning the recovery journey, please remember not to refuse medical help when you absolutely know it’s needed; don’t allow fear to get in the way.

LINDA ROBERTS So sorry you are having to go through this and sure can relate to your feelings of not wanting to go to the hospital even though that would be the smart thing ... Read more

LINDA ROBERTS So sorry you are having to go through this and sure can relate to your feelings of not wanting to go to the hospital even though that would be the smart thing to do. You are strong and a fighter so know this will soon be behind you.

Susan Lynn Tracy - I am so sorry you are experiencing these symptoms and I agree with the advice you are giving about going to the hospital. Have you considered going ... Read more

Susan Lynn Tracy - I am so sorry you are experiencing these symptoms and I agree with the advice you are giving about going to the hospital. Have you considered going to one of the major heart hospitals for another opinion? Everyone is certainly different and complications can happen with any surgery, but maybe a fresh perspective might help. Don't worry about offending your doctor - I'm sure he wants to see you improve, too. All the best ❤

I am just shy of 1 year Mitral Valve Repair.
Today, I had the 2 week follow up from my recent hospital admission (recurrent pericarditis) with my cardiologist. I’m guessing
he’s been practicing for 25+ years. I’m his first patient ever that has had recurrent pericarditis. He is at a loss as why it happened again. He stated the ekg in hospital showed elevated ST Segment and Early Repolarization, which is an indicator of pericarditis. I’ll continue on the current med treatment and follow up in 6 weeks.
He’s frustrated as I’m “one of his healthiest patients with a recovery of many setbacks”. We hope for improvement in 6 weeks or he’ll go to plan B.

I asked the cardiologist about “ the annular ring that “was not seen” on the recent echo while in the hospital. He states it’s still there, the tech wasn’t looking for it . (I hope 🤪)

Despite it all, I continue to keep my head up and walk forward with strength and faith. Setbacks only make us stronger along the way of life.

Shannon Gray I do hope all of this will be in the rear view mirror for you, very soon. I was full of energy and had no other major health issues before my surgery, but needed ... Read more

Shannon Gray I do hope all of this will be in the rear view mirror for you, very soon. I was full of energy and had no other major health issues before my surgery, but needed up with a very difficult recovery. Major pericardial effusion, which then led to remaining pericarditis. I think the things that may help to look at is 1. What medicine are you taking for it? 2. Is there a proper tapering schedule ? Always feel free to email me with any questions. Wishing you the best!

Molly Ivers Sorry to hear about the setbacks Tracy - you will get thru this.

Barbara Wood Best wishes Tracy, so sorry you're having these complications - your positive attitude will help you through this.

Update posted on...

October 26, 2018

In February 2018, 3 months post op, Mitral repair, I was diagnosed with pericarditis. It took about 2 months to feel better. Last week, 11 months post op, the pericarditis returned. I was in an incredible amount of pain, the cardiologist admitted me to the hospital for 2.5 days. While there, I had an echo. I see my cardiologist for a follow up in a week. Today, the echo was released in the patient portal. The report states:
“Previous noted annular support ring not present as noted on previous reports.”
I am very confused as all other (5) post op reports noted the ring. Does anyone have thoughts on the report?
Thank you in advance.

Barbara Wood Curious! There are biodegradable rings, also I remember my surgeon saying that tissue would grow over the ring - why I had to take Coumadin for a few months ... Read more

Barbara Wood Curious! There are biodegradable rings, also I remember my surgeon saying that tissue would grow over the ring - why I had to take Coumadin for a few months after mitral repair, until the tissue grew to cover it. Glad you are feeling better after pericarditis! Let us know what you find out:).

Tracy Fallu I looked at the surgical report and wasn’t able to find what type of ring. I will for sure let you know what I find out.

Susan Lynn Tracy- I actually received a laminated card from Edwards Lifesciences with all the details of my ring, surgeon's name, hospital, and date of placement. Did you receive anything like that?

Tracy Fallu I did not receive a card.
To be honest, being naive, and scared about the whole process, I truly did not ask many questions pre/post surgery which I’ve learned ... Read more

Tracy Fallu I did not receive a card.
To be honest, being naive, and scared about the whole process, I truly did not ask many questions pre/post surgery which I’ve learned to never do again. From being on this amazing site, I’ve learned what to ask, etc. because of this wonderful site.
I truly appreciate all of you taking the time to share your thoughts/experiences to my question. My cardiologist appt is November 6; I bet you can ask what my first question will be 😉.

Susan Lynn Tracy - I wouldn't worry about it. You'll find out about the ring when you meet with your doctor. Your repair was different than most of us plain ole' mitral ... Read more

Susan Lynn Tracy - I wouldn't worry about it. You'll find out about the ring when you meet with your doctor. Your repair was different than most of us plain ole' mitral valve prolapse people, so it's not unusual that you may have had a different type of ring used. Stay positive - don't borrow any unnecessary worries. You're going to be just fine! Please keep us posted.

Tracy Fallu Exactly 11 months time difference.
November 19, 2017 on way home from OHS, removal of fibroelastoma,Mitral Valve Repair.
October,2018 enjoyed a lovely evening ... Read more

Tracy Fallu Exactly 11 months time difference.
November 19, 2017 on way home from OHS, removal of fibroelastoma,Mitral Valve Repair.
October,2018 enjoyed a lovely evening and honored to be a guest with other strong, kind hearted and passionate Heart Warriors at the American Heart Association ♥️ Ball.

Thank you Adam for the interviews you shared with us from the Heart Summit.
Dr Bolling made a comment- When I see patients for a follow up after Mitral Valve Repair, I send them off with “Bye, have a great life” (or something similar). That statement really hit home for me.
I am 11 months post op Mitral Valve Repair, removal of growth. 3 months ago, through echo and follow up TEE, it was determined I have mild to moderate regurgitation. My local cardiologist, whom I very pleased with, stated my body did not accept the repair as it should. At this point, my heart Is functioning perfectly and my LV is within normal range. Of course I am frustrated. While I’m grateful the tumor was noticed and removed, I’m frustrated to now have regurgitation. I know some people live with regurgitatation for many years. I am on a watchful waiting every 6 months.
I’m very type A- I want to speak with my surgeon to hear what insights he has. I have not made an appointment yet as I don’t want to appear “overly crazy 😜 “. However, making an appointment continues to pop into my head. After listening to the Summit videos, making an appt is definitely in the forefront of my mind.

Rob Sparling Tracy, I just re-read your story and found the last sentence to be inspirational.

“And one day she discovered that she was fierce, and strong, and full ... Read more

Rob Sparling Tracy, I just re-read your story and found the last sentence to be inspirational.

“And one day she discovered that she was fierce, and strong, and full of fire, and that not even she could hold herself back.”

Go get more answers! Who cares if people think you are “overly crazy”? That doesn’t mean a procedure is in the offing, but get your head wrapped around it. The timing of when or if to address the regurgitation is a tough trade-off that can go years, but make it an informed trade-off. You are the captain of your Heart Warrior ship!

Jennifer McInerney The comment “still she persisted” comes to mind. You are your own best advocate. Go get them girl!!!!

LINDA ROBERTS I am a type A personality too so I get it. I would make an appointment and hopefully it will give you some peace of mind.

Today is World ♥️ Day.
To celebrate, I ran 8 miles this morning. Although we are all at different points of our ♥️ journey, we all are warriors. Celebrate YOU today. Thank you Adam Pick for you selfless effort in creating this group and knowledg

Robert Bach You are looking great! It gives me hope -- I'm one-quarter of the way through cardiac rehab, which has helped a lot. But I still have a ways to go and am hopeful ... Read more

Robert Bach You are looking great! It gives me hope -- I'm one-quarter of the way through cardiac rehab, which has helped a lot. But I still have a ways to go and am hopeful that I'll be better than new in a few more months.

10 months post op Mitral Valve Repair, I was honored to receive a Heart Hero Award for a 1/2 marathon running the following day.
For those of you recovering, please know that it has its ups and downs; however, be patient & you will begin to notice improv

Update- Mitral Valve Regurgitation

Journal posted on August 12, 2018

I had a follow up echo, 9 months post op Mitral Valve Repair. I learned last week that I have moderate Mitral Valve Regurgitaton. I head to the Cleveland Clinic at the end of the month for a TEE and metabolic stress test. I’m now putting some “signs” together that I was thinking were “normal”. The fatigue and exercise exhaustion has gone through the roof over the last month.
Anyone else have a quick onset of symptoms with regurgitation. If you are reading this and have/had moderate Mitral Valve Regurgitation, understanding each case is different, I’d appreciate your insight.

Louanna Miller Tracy, I have severe mitral valve regurgitation. I am easily tired, winded, exhausted. I am no longer able to walk my 5 miles a day due to exhaustion. Gradually ... Read more

Louanna Miller Tracy, I have severe mitral valve regurgitation. I am easily tired, winded, exhausted. I am no longer able to walk my 5 miles a day due to exhaustion. Gradually my walks became shorter and shorter. I am no longer going for walks at all.

I struggle with just walking upstairs in our home. I am often winded and tired once I get up or down stairs. I am physically fit and typically go non-stop. I am easily fatigued daily.

I will be having OHS next Monday, August 20 for Mitral Valve Repair at Northwestern Medicine.

I am 9 months post op, removal of fibroelastoma, Mitral Valve Repair. I am an endurance athlete and decided to be safe and send my records to Cleveland Clinic for a Cardiac Sports Dr to look over.
Today, I received a call that the doctor has looked over my records and would like me to come in for a consultation, spend the night as it’s quite possible a TEE is warranted.
Of course I will go for the appointment as I believe a 2nd opinion is important even if post op, but gosh, the suggestion of a TEE threw me off a quite a bit. I’ve had one before, it’s not the procedure that bothers me, it’s the unsettling feeling as to why it’s suggested. I’m awaiting a call back as I’d like to know what information was gathered to suggest the possibility of a TEE.
Thank you for listening.

Bonnie Stone-Hope Hello Tracy,
So good that they are being so thorough, looking over your records, and the TEE will give them a great view of the valve function, so they can ... Read more

Bonnie Stone-Hope Hello Tracy,
So good that they are being so thorough, looking over your records, and the TEE will give them a great view of the valve function, so they can give you the OK as to when you can resume your endurance sports.
Best wishes coming your way

Louanna Miller Thank you for sharing your courageous journey. We must be gentle with ourselves as we face surgery and throughout recovery. Great to read you are doing well. ... Read more

Louanna Miller Thank you for sharing your courageous journey. We must be gentle with ourselves as we face surgery and throughout recovery. Great to read you are doing well. You give me encouragement for my surgery and recovery.

Elaine Cutri I agree with Bonnie. I had my OHS at Cleveland Clinic 3 years ago. I thought they were very thorough in collecting information, through tests, and using it ... Read more

Elaine Cutri I agree with Bonnie. I had my OHS at Cleveland Clinic 3 years ago. I thought they were very thorough in collecting information, through tests, and using it wisely, Good job on your rehab. Best wishes for going the distance!

Anna Jones Tracy, I'm betting that your imagination is making the eventual diagnosis much worse than it will be in reality. Sending prayers and best wishes for an easy and healthy journey ahead.

Tracy Fallu After 7 months, I finally had the emotional ability to post “my story”.
Thank you Adam for this wonderful site and all those of you who post. It’s nice to know we are not alone.

Marjorie Murphy You are an inspiration to all of us facing and recovering from OHS. Thank you so much for sharing.

Susan Lynn Wow! What an incredible story! Thank you for sharing Welcome, Tracy!

Anna Jones Welcome. Thank you for sharing your story and your strength. I love the quote in your story. Best wishes for continued health, happiness, and personal
Bests in your marathons

Tracy, I am glad you posted. You never know when something you say will inspire or instill confidence In someone. Although I only had a TAVR, I was still very ... Read more

Tracy, I am glad you posted. You never know when something you say will inspire or instill confidence In someone. Although I only had a TAVR, I was still very nervous. My family would ask me how I was and I would say great all the while shaking in my boots. I would then post my concerns on this board. It is like a safe place.

Chris Purvis Awesome story Tracy! Glad you decided to put yourself out there and post it. Took me some time as well but I was constantly on the site reading stories etc.

Jennifer John Tracy, thanks for your story. I see you’re from Livonia. I’m from Troy. So you know what? It’s hard to keep us down. We’re a couple of tough Michigan broads!🤗💪🏼❤️

Kelli Dang Tracy, today I am two months post mitral valve repair. My EF is 35-40%, and I start cardiac rehab end of next month. I haven't posted anything yet but thank ... Read more

Kelli Dang Tracy, today I am two months post mitral valve repair. My EF is 35-40%, and I start cardiac rehab end of next month. I haven't posted anything yet but thank you for posting--it gives me hope that in 8 more months maybe I can run a half-marathon, too. :)